Marshall is also providing SpaceX propulsion engineering support in
developing its Launch Abort System and on-orbit propulsion systems. The
center is also helping the company with the design of its steering and
attitude control and materials and processes.

Marshall's wind tunnel is small -- only 14 square inches -- but it has both vacuum and atmospheric exhaust capabilities. The Marshall aerodynamics team is also experienced at tests up to Mach 5, or five times the speed of sound.

Use of NASA facilities is growing by commercial companies under Space Act Agreements signed between the companies and NASA. Marshall has also performed wind tunnel testing for Sierra Nevada, another of the commercial companies developing private spacecraft.

The cross-pollination of NASA centers and commercial companies is designed to develop a dual-path space program, the space agency has said. Commercial companies develop low-Earth orbit capabilities, and NASA concentrates on deep space. NASA centers around the country are opening their doors and facilities to private industry in other areas